SUPPORt
The following information has been sourced from reputable references and was neither developed nor created by The Joan Rotondi Hope & Empowerment Foundation. All resources are linked at the bottom for your reference.
What is Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer is an umbrella term for a group of diseases that originate at or near the ovaries. Currently, 45 different types of ovarian cancer have been identified.¹ It is the fifth most common cancer amongst women, with an estimated 3,100 diagnosed annually in Canada.²
Symptoms
The World Ovarian Cancer Coalition’s Every Woman Study™ (2018) discovered that more than 90% of women experienced several of the key symptoms below regardless of stage or type of ovarian cancer.³
Pelvic / abdominal pain
Bloating / increased abdominal size
Difficulty eating or feeling full
Urinary urgency or increased frequency
If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms, talk to your doctor immediately.
RISK FACTORS
Approximately 10–25% of ovarian cancer diagnoses are hereditary, most commonly linked to BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations. Women with BRCA1 mutations have a 39–44% lifetime risk of developing ovarian cancer, compared to 11–17% for BRCA2. Overall, about 18% of cases are associated with inherited BRCA mutations.
Other genetic mutations linked to increased ovarian cancer risk can be seen on this LifeLabs list.
TAKE ACTION
While there isn't currently a universal screening tool to test for early detection of ovarian cancer, the following measures may help in catching a diagnosis earlier. In any case, if you are concerned about symptoms, talk to your doctor immediately.
Genetic Testing
-
If you have a family member who has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer and you are concerned about your risk, ask your doctor for a referral to a public health insured test.
-
Private testing options are also available, see examples below:
Routine Pelvic Exams
-
A pelvic exam alone is not a reliable measure to detecting ovarian cancer.
-
A pelvic exam is not the same as a Pap smear, however they are often performed during the same appointment.
-
A Pap smear strictly tests for cervical cancer, whereas a pelvic exam assesses your reproductive organs.
-
-
During a pelvic exam, the doctor will check your vulva, vagina, cervix, ovaries, uterus and pelvis for any abnormalities.
-
Any abnormalities will typically be examined further through a Transvaginal ultrasound.
-
Transvaginal Ultrasound
-
This imaging test uses sound waves to examine the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus.
-
It can detect the presence of an adnexal mass in the ovaries, though it cannot determine whether the mass is cancerous or benign.
-
If an adnexal mass is found, further testing such as the OvaWatch® Blood Test is required to assess it's nature.
Adnexal Mass: A lump or growth in the tissue near the uterus, typically involving the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or surrounding connective tissue
OvaWatch® Blood Test
-
Traditionally, a CA125 test is used to detect ovarian cancer, however it is notoriously unreliable as a standalone screening tool.
-
Elevated CA125 levels can be caused by a benign conditions like endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease, and not all women with ovarian cancer will have elevated CA125 levels.
-
-
The OvaWatch® test is a significant advancement, particularly when an adnexal mass has already been identified by ultrasound.
-
OvaWatch® combines multiple biomarkers and advanced algorithms to provide a more accurate assessment of whether a detected mass is likely to be benign.
-
This test is designed to offer clearer guidance for further diagnostic steps, reducing the uncertainty and anxiety often associated with the diagnosis of an adnexal mass.
SEEKING CARE
After receiving a diagnosis, you may begin considering where to seek care. Because ovarian cancer is often complex and can require highly specialized, multidisciplinary management, seeking care at a high-volume centre with deep expertise in gynecologic oncology can be especially important. For those who are able, exploring treatment at a leading institution such as the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre can provide access to specialized surgical teams, comprehensive support services, and innovative treatment plans.
If appropriate and feasible, consider discussing a referral to the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre with your doctor immediately. A formal referral is the preferred pathway for accessing care; however, if you are facing reluctancy or push back, you may can try contacting Princess Margaret directly.
We understand that factors such as geography, financial considerations, work or caregiving responsibilities, and access to transportation can influence what is possible for each person. Refer to some summarized resources below that may help aid your decision.
Accomodations Nearby Princess Margaret Cancer Centre
ADVOCACY
The Power of Being Proactive
Being proactive with your health and staying attuned to your symptoms can significantly impact your well-being and increase your chances of early detection, particularly with ovarian cancer. Speaking up and standing firm when discussing concerns with your doctor are vital. Strong self-advocacy can make a crucial difference, as those who assertively communicate their symptoms may detect ovarian cancer earlier. This proactive approach empowers you to take control of your health, ensuring that your voice is heard and your care aligns with your needs.
Empowering Yourself
Empowering yourself in your cancer journey involves gaining the knowledge and skills to actively participate in your care. By understanding your diagnosis, treatment options, and their impacts, you can make informed decisions and communicate effectively with your medical team. In today’s complex healthcare environment, being informed and assertive patient is more important than ever. Collaboration with healthcare providers and support networks is key to overcoming challenges and ensuring the best possible care.
A Collective Effort
Advocacy extends beyond the individual, it includes families, friends, healthcare providers, and caregivers. Anyone who takes an active role in making informed decisions about treatment and quality of life after a cancer diagnosis is an advocate. Whether advocating for yourself or others, at a personal, community, or national level, this shared responsibility strengthens the broader community of those living with, through, and beyond cancer. By staying informed, communicating openly, and participating in decision-making, we contribute to a culture of empowerment and support that benefits all who are affected by cancer.
¹ Ovarian Cancer Canada. (2024). Understanding ovarian cancer: A comprehensive patient guide. Retrieved from https://ovariancanada.org/resources/support-resources?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22727472211&gbraid=0AAAAADsQjwGBxmBOH3Uuk-J3T6jsgry7J&gclid=CjwKCAjwnN3OBhA8EiwAfpTYegXqR6bcpVG4ji4EuHnnz1wPFb9t2CIpJrLi2B9KXewA24noFVajIRoCIyEQAvD_BwE. Accessed 9 Apr. 2026.
² Cancer Society Canada. (2023). Hope for ovarian cancer research. Retrieved from https://cancer.ca/en/about-us/stories/2023/hope-for-ovarian-cancer-research. Accessed 9 Apr. 2026.
³ World Ovarian Cancer Coalition. (2023). World Ovarian Cancer Coalition Atlas 2023. Retrieved from https://worldovariancancercoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/World-Ovarian-Cancer-Coalition-Atlas-2023-FINAL.pdf. Accessed 24 Aug. 2024.